The new head of St Peter's School in Exeter says she wants it to be a beacon of success in the city.
But Rachel Hutchinson says there is much room for improvement at the Church of England secondary school.
Mrs Hutchinson, who was born and educated in Exeter, took over as headteacher of St Peter's this term.
She was formerly vice principal of King Edward VI Community College in Totnes.
Ofsted inspectors gave the college ratings of good across the board in an official report in December. They said senior leaders had been very successful in improving teaching and pupils' achievements.
On Monday (May 12) Mrs Hutchinson was officially commissioned as head by the Bishop of Crediton, the Rt Rev Nick McKinnel, in a service at the school.
In a letter to parents, Mrs Hutchinson said: "I have received an incredible amount of support and sincere welcomes from staff, students and parents.
"I feel privileged and honoured to serve at such a compassionate and caring school.
"St Peter's is a very happy and vibrant place to work, with a committed staff body, who genuinely care about the students.
"The majority of our students enjoy coming to school and are responsible individuals, who abide with daily routines across the school.
"However, recent monitoring visits and my own observations, demonstrate that there is much room for improvement, and a need to raise expectations, and standards of practice across the school, in order that all students can achieve their full potential.
"Students get only one chance at school, and I am determined to ensure that those who attend St Peter's receive a first class education which will prepare them for the rest of their lives.
"The governors, staff and I will work with you to make St Peter's Church of England Aided School a beacon of success in the city.
"My goal is that St Peter's gains recognition both locally, and nationally, as a centre of excellence for education and our Christian values.
"My expectations of students, in terms of their achievement and behaviour, are very high.
"I am keen to develop a strong and transparent working relationship between myself, students, staff, governors and parents.
"Working together, we can ensure that all students receive an outstanding experience."
Mrs Hutchinson says she wants to meet as many parents as possible to hear their views about the school.
